HR compliance risks in Canada

Staying compliant isn’t just about knowing the rules. It’s about recognizing where risks can arise and putting the right systems in place to manage them. The sections below break down common HR compliance challenges and how to stay ahead of them.

At ADP Canada, we help businesses navigate HR compliance by tracking legislative and regulatory changes and delivering timely updates, tools and guidance to our clients.

  • Are you managing these top HR compliance risks?: Terminations, sexual harassment, occupational health and safety, human rights violations, overtime pay mitigation, non-standard employment, government enforcement and monitoring
  • Do you have HR compliance risks?: Consider these questions to determine if your organization may be at risk.
  • Data-driven HR: Learn more about why HR teams need to become data-driven and what best-in-class companies are doing to understand their workforce.

FAQS

What are HR compliance risks?

HR compliance risks are the areas where employers may fail to meet legal obligations under applicable employment standards, human rights, pay equity, workplace health and safety and privacy laws. Non-compliance can result in fines and penalties, regulator investigations, lawsuits and other reputational harm.

Why is HR compliance so challenging in Canada?

Canada has 14 separate legal jurisdictions, each with its own payroll requirements and employment standards, human rights (anti-discrimination) and occupational health and safety laws. Employers operating across multiple provinces or federally must track overlapping and frequently changing rules which may also encompass privacy, pay equity, pay transparency, workplace accessibility and tax requirements.

How often should employers review their HR policies for compliance?

Employers should review policies at least once a year, and immediately after any legislative or regulatory changes in their jurisdiction or industry. Regular reviews can help ensure policies stay current and compliant.